Man (48) crashed stolen BMW

Scales.

Published:12:16Wednesday 06 January 2016

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A man was caught driving a car stolen from a Lancashire garage after suffering a road accident in Pilling.

Garfield Roberts, 48, of Broad Lane, Out Rawcliffe, admitted dishonestly arranging to receive the white BMW, which was worth £3,500, following the crash on November 17 at the junction of Union Lane and Moss Side Lane in Pilling.

The vehicle was stolen from Lawtons of Fleetwood in February, Preston Magistrates’ Court heard.

Roberts also admitted driving without insurance or a licence.

Prosecuting, Adrian Hollamby said: “It is not suggested he stole it, he came into possession of it in September this year. The offence was discovered by police because they were called to a road collision involving this vehicle.

“The defendant had come off the road and rolled down an embankment.

“Mr Roberts stated he was the vehicle owner and accepted he had crashed the vehicle after leaving his home

“He was interviewed voluntarily and explained the circumstances of how he had come by the vehicle. He said his son had contacted him saying he knew of a vehicle he could use for spare parts.

“He went to a house in Thornton Cleveleys and got the vehicle there. He accepted he knew it was probably stolen and didn’t make the inquiries necessary to establish that.”

Defending, Sephton Lee said: “My client’s son advised him about this car. He’s gone to the address and a male has given him the keys.

“He didn’t pay anything for it, he does accept he thought it was too good to be true.

“He has a similar vehicle and was going to use this vehicle as parts.

The bench imposed 40 hours unpaid work and he must also pay a £60 surcharge and £85 costs.